Hey Asilly50NJ, why not swap in a 5r55e. Its better off than the a4ld,and you can probably build it to be a lot more stronger than it. I completely understand why u are doing this, with an auto on the rocks and such u can fully concntrate ahead of u and not have to worry about that much else(funking with the damn clutch). My auto has done me good and it has about 120,000+ on it now and no signs of crapping out.I also DO beat the crap out of it, ask any of my friends about my driving style.When it does go byebye i will probably rebuild it or swap in a 5sp. The 5spd does have its advantages though, u are in complete control,not having to wait for the auto to think what to do, and gear reduction,although u can get alot more out of an auto. I totally agree with u on the part about not wanting to have a piece of **** GM tranny in your truck, there are so many other options to do instead of the 700r4, everyone who has put this tranny in their rig is a complete dumbass and are not a ford loyalyist. Im exactually like u, i like my fords to stay ford,
Matt